Sr. RF Hardware Systems Engineer | JobSetuu

Description

Job Overview

• Source: Jobicy

Job Description

About the role

We’re looking for a Senior Hardware Engineer, RF Systems to own critical RF subsystems and help define platform‑level RF architectures that power Samsara’s connected hardware portfolio. You’ll combine deep RF expertise with strong product instincts, partnering with cross‑functional teams to ship robust, high‑volume hardware.

Our hardware team owns end‑to‑end product development for Samsara’s AI & Connected devices, from architecture and component selection through validation and ramp to mass production. Within this team, you will lead RF and wireless architectures and reusable reference designs across multiple product lines, including chipset and antenna selection for cellular LTE/5G, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, GNSS, UWB, satellite, NFC, and more.

This role may be within Samsara’s Hardware Engineering job family based on experience and impact.

In this role, you will

• Create RF subsystem architectures and design, develop, and test RF circuits, modules, and antennas through all phases of the development process.
• Review board‑level schematics and PCB layouts of RF circuits and system‑level integration, including link budget and simulation‑based analysis.
• Bring up RF subsystems and enable product teams to develop next‑generation products and new product proofs of concept.
• Characterize and validate board‑level and system‑level RF performance, margins, and sensitivities in the lab.
• Perform root‑cause analysis for field failures and drive design changes and corrective actions.
• Stay abreast of the latest wireless technologies from leading semiconductor vendors and evaluate cutting‑edge solutions across 4G/5G, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, GNSS, UWB, mmWave, satellite, and related domains.
• Integrate evaluation kits (EVKs) to showcase new technology concepts and demos that inform Samsara’s product roadmap.
• Actively participate in sampling customer experience and improving RF‑related product performance.
• Work closely with product teams and JDM partners to design, validate, certify, and manufacture high‑quality products at scale.
• Champion, role model, and up-level the cross‑functional team to exhibit Samsara’s values and leadership principles (Focus on Customer Success, Build for the Long Term, Growth Mindset, Win as a Team).
• Mentor other engineers in RF best practices, design reviews, and lab methodology.

Minimum requirements for the role

• 5+ years of professional industry experience in RF circuit and module development.
• Proficiency in board‑level schematic design and PCB layout of RF circuits and familiarity with RF layout guidelines.
• Hands‑on experience with 4G/5G, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, GNSS, UWB, or satellite communications in shipping products.
• Experience working with RF chipset/module vendors, test instrument suppliers, and JDM/ODM partners, and shipping high‑quality hardware at volume.
• Proficiency with RF simulation tools such as CST, ADS, and with EDA tools such as Altium or Cadence.
• Experience using RF lab instruments such as network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and oscilloscopes.
• Ability to work through ambiguous product requirements and complex design trade‑offs.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in RF Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain RF trade‑offs to non‑RF stakeholders.
• This role is based in the San Francisco Bay Area.

An ideal candidate also has

• Experience with antenna simulation and design.
• Knowledge of EMI/EMC design and mitigation techniques.
• Thrives in an environment that requires rapid deployment and iteration based on customer feedback.
• Practical, hands‑on experience with Wi‑Fi, BLE, LTE, 5G, satellite, UWB, GNSS, and related wireless standards.
• Experience setting up and scaling RF labs for hardware development, characterization, validation, and failure analysis.
• A forward‑looking mindset to build processes, identify opportunities, and serve as a go‑to person for RF‑related technical issues.
• Experience with system engineering best practices and product compliance and certification including FCC, PTCRB, CTIA, ETSI, TIA/EIA, and similar regulations.

Expert Career Tips for Sr. RF Hardware Systems Engineer Roles

To succeed in a competitive market as a Sr. RF Hardware Systems Engineer, you need more than just technical skills. Here are some expert strategies to elevate your profile:

• Build a Strong Portfolio: For technical roles, a clean GitHub or a personal project site is essential. For non-technical roles, a case study portfolio demonstrating problem-solving and impact is equally valuable. Show, don't just tell, what you have achieved in your previous positions.
• Master the Narrative: When interviewing, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Quantify your results wherever possible—mentioning "increased efficiency by 20%" is much more impactful than saying "improved efficiency."
• Continuous Learning: The industry moves fast. Whether it's staying updated with the latest AI tools or mastering a new management methodology, continuous professional development is key. Consider obtaining industry-recognized certifications that align with Sr. RF Hardware Systems Engineer requirements.
• Networking: Connect with other professionals in similar roles. Join online communities, attend webinars, and engage in meaningful discussions on professional social networks. Often, the best opportunities come through referrals and community engagement.
• Soft Skills Matter: Communication, empathy, and leadership are often the deciding factors between two equally qualified technical candidates. Cultivate these skills as they are universally valued across all industries and seniority levels.

Additionally, research the specific company's culture and values. Tailoring your application to show how you align with their mission can significantly increase your chances of moving forward in the process.

Salary & Compensation

Salary not disclosed; typically competitive for the role.

Work Arrangement

Type: On-Site

Standard business hours at the office.

Comprehensive Application Strategy & Hiring Process

Applying for a new role is a marathon, not a sprint. Follow this strategic approach to maximize your success rate:

1. Initial Research & Tailoring

Don't send the same resume to every employer. Spend at least 30 minutes researching the company. Look for recent news, their product roadmap, and their team structure. Modify your summary and core competencies to reflect the specific keywords found in the job description.

2. The Perfect Cover Letter

If the application allows for a cover letter, use it to tell a story that your resume cannot. Explain why you are passionate about this specific company and how your unique background makes you the perfect fit for the challenges they are currently facing.

3. Navigating the Multi-Stage Interview

Most modern hiring processes involve 3-5 stages. This typically includes a recruiter screen, a technical or skill-based assessment, a peer interview, and a final leadership round. Prepare for each stage differently: focus on enthusiasm and fit for the recruiter, technical depth for the assessment, and strategic vision for the leadership round.

4. Post-Interview Follow-Up

Always send a personalized thank-you note within 24 hours of each interview. Reference a specific topic discussed during the call to demonstrate your active listening and genuine interest in the role.

By following these steps, you demonstrate a high level of professionalism and attention to detail that sets you apart from the average applicant.

Typical Interview Process

1. Resume screening
2. HR call
3. Skill interview
4. Final manager interview
5. Offer

Tip: Research the company's products and culture.

Global Market Intelligence & Relocation Insights

At JobSetuu, we specialize in helping talent navigate the global job market. Here is what you need to know about the current landscape in Global and beyond:

The demand for skilled professionals is increasingly borderless. For roles based in Global, understanding the local cost of living, visa requirements (if applicable), and cultural nuances is vital. If this is a remote role, consider the time zone alignment and the asynchronous communication culture of the hiring organization.

Relocation Support: Many forward-thinking companies offer relocation packages that include moving stipends, temporary housing, and legal assistance with work permits. When evaluating an offer, look beyond the base salary—consider the total compensation package, including equity, bonuses, and healthcare benefits.

Work-Life Balance Trends: Hybrid and remote work have become standard in many regions. Research the local labor laws and common practices regarding work hours and vacation time to ensure the role aligns with your lifestyle goals.

Leveraging JobSetuu's tools can help you compare salaries across different cities and understand the "purchasing power" of your potential offer, ensuring you make an informed decision for your long-term career path.

Skills & Competency Roadmap for Professional Development

To remain competitive in Professional Development, we recommend focusing on the following core competencies over the next 12-18 months:

• Technical Mastery: Deepen your expertise in the core tools and languages relevant to your field. For developers, this might be cloud architecture; for marketers, it might be data-driven attribution modeling.
• AI Augmentation: Learn how to leverage generative AI and automation tools to increase your productivity. Understanding how to integrate these technologies into your workflow is becoming a non-negotiable skill.
• Leadership & Strategy: Even in individual contributor roles, the ability to think strategically and lead projects from inception to completion is highly valued. Focus on stakeholder management and high-level project planning.
• Data Literacy: The ability to interpret data and use it to drive decisions is essential across all business functions. Familiarize yourself with data visualization and basic analytical concepts.

By investing in these areas, you not only prepare yourself for the role you are applying for today but also build a resilient foundation for the opportunities of tomorrow.

Apply via JobSetuu

Discover your next career milestone on JobSetuu. This Sr. RF Hardware Systems Engineer position is part of our commitment to bringing you the most relevant and high-impact job openings globally. At JobSetuu, we simplify your job search by aggregating premier listings and providing the tools you need to stand out. Don't miss the chance to elevate your professional journey—explore more opportunities and career insights on our platform today.